There’s no question in our minds that while New York is the city that doesn’t sleep, Hoboken is most certainly the city that always eats — a title we are incredibly proud of. The vast array of cuisines that diversifies the city is what makes dining out a culinary experience. But for those looking for the classic Italian deli, Hoboken is also the spot. Whether craving a classic Italian hero, a hot sandwich, or just a hunk of fresh mozzarella, these local digs are staples in the city and make for a great lunch break. Check out some of the most popular Italian delis around town.
Fiore’s House of Quality | 414 Adams Street
Fiore’s is best known for the fresh mozzarella and roast beef sandwich special on Thursdays and Saturdays. Originally owned by the Fiore Family in 1903 and taken over to the Amato Family nearly six decades ago, this spot is a Hoboken staple. Customers flock from all ends of the earth for a sandwich. Each day features a different special such as corned beef, sausage, and roast beef sandwiches, but all of the classic deli orders can be made any day of the week. It is also a great spot to pick up fresh cold cuts, prepared foods, bread, and packaged Italian imports. But remember, this deli is cash only and closed on Sundays. Beat the crowd by calling in orders and picking up on the left side of the counter.
Read more: From Italy to Hoboken: Alessio’s, the Mile Square’s Newest Italian Cafe
Lisa’s Deli | 901 Park Avenue
When Pietro and Caterina Lisa opened up this deli, they never knew it would be as popular as it is today. Customers flock to this spot for mozzarella and sandwiches especially but also for other hot and cold food. Lisa’s is proud of the healthy, quality ingredients they use to make everyone feel like they’re eating a home-cooked meal at Nonna’s house. In addition to the regular deli menu, Lisa’s offers a catering menu that will rival any restaurant. The storefront even has sweet treats available such as cannoli, rice pudding, tiramisu, and more. Take-out and delivery are both available for customers.
Losurdo Brothers | 410 2nd Street
The Losurdo Family came from Bari, Italy in 1971. They brought their traditions and home-cooked recipes to the Mile Square in 1975 and have been serving the community ever since. Best known for the focaccia, made fresh on Saturdays only, and the mozzarella, Losurdo’s is a one-stop shop for all things Italian. From fresh bread, pizza, cold cuts, sandwiches, and hundreds of imported Italian goods, this family business has it all. Don’t sleep on the desserts, either — sfoigatelle (say it with us: sfug-lee-a-tell-uh) is also available here and they are by far the best in the area. Losurdo’s has it all.
Luca Brasi’s Deli | 100 Park Avenue
Most people think Luca Brasi sleeps with the fishes, but not here. This deli is alive and always hoppin’. With an area for dining, this deli has more options than one knows what to do with. The menu is fully loaded with breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The deli offers cold and hot sandwich options and is well known for quite a few sandwiches, most specifically, the Big Paulie, which is prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, and roasted red peppers. This newer deli is a great option for some classic Jersey Italian grub.
M+P Biancamano | 1116 Washington Street
There is a reason this Italian deli has won Hoboken’s MutzFest multiple years in a row. And while this sounds cheesy, (pun very much intended), the deli has so many incredible beloved options in the Mile Square. Owners Pietro and Teresa run the deli entirely on their own and have been serving the community since 1981. Some favorites on the menu include the chicken parmigiana sandwich, the chicken cutlet, fresh mozzarella, and broccoli rabe sandwich, as well as Pietro’s favorite, weighing in at a whopping 2.5 pounds, the ham, capicola, prosciutto, pepperoni, and mozzarella sandwich.
See more: For Your Next Mutz Craving: Italian Delis in Jersey City You Must Try
Vito’s Italian Deli | 806 Washington Street
Vito, owner of the deli, was born and raised in Hoboken and has been serving the community since 1986. On the menu at Vito’s is obviously mozzarella but, in addition to that, Vito’s has the classic Italian deli goods. The namesake Vito sandwich is one of the most loved on the menu, with ham, salami, homemade mozzarella, lettuce, tomatoes, dressing, and peppers — hot or sweet. The store also makes hot meals such as meatballs, portobello mushrooms, and grilled eggplant. Catering and delivery are also available.
